I don’t know about you, but I love reading tips and tricks from people who have been there, done that, got the t-shirt!

Whether you’re already a mama or you’re soon to become one, I wanted to share some essential tips that will help you cope with those first few weeks with your new baby. I shared a poll on my Instagram page, asking mama’s “what essential piece of advice would you give to an expectant mum?”

The response was incredible, and I’ve put together my favourite tips that you won’t always find in your average baby book:

Stock up on the essentials – Tea. Chocolate, and lots of it!

Take a tour of the hospital – Getting to know your surroundings before you give birth can help to relax you on the day.

Take it easy – Be kind to yourself. Sleep, rest, relax as much as possible. Cuddle baby all the time!! Don’t try to do too much and enjoy it!

It’s okay to not do it alone – Don’t be afraid to ask for help and accept any help that’s offered to you

Relax, guilt-free – Do nothing! Limit the number of guests (and don’t feel like you have to offer them a cuppa, they can help themselves!) so you can enjoy this time just you and your baby.

Teamwork makes the dream work – Share the duties and make time where possible so that each person can have a sneaky lie in

Cuddles are okay – Baby won’t settle? This time is so fleeting and your baby has been curled up inside your tummy for 9 months. Don’t feel like it’s wrong to cuddle them more than you think you should. Forget the stressful idea of a creating routine for the first couple of months and just enjoy them being there.

Get outdoors – Go for a walk every day, even if it’s a short one. Fresh air works wonders!

Snacks are life – Eat whatever you want, whenever you want. A Mars Bar at 2am is totally acceptable.

Relax your mind, as well as your body – Forget anything that you think needs to be done around the house or for your job. Be calm, present in the moment and enjoy all the cuddles. Everything else can wait.

Happy tummy, happy mummy – Don’t feel obliged to see people, but definitely see the ones who will bring food – maybe even make this a visiting rule!

You’ve got this – Follow your instincts, not ‘the rules’

A quick, huge thank you to all the mamas who took the time to share their wisdom, you guys are the best!

SB x